CM3050 User Manual

Leica CM3050 S
Cryostat
Instruction Manual
Leica CM3050 S Cryostat
English V1.1 02/2000
Always keep this manual near the instrument.
Read carefully prior to operating the instrument.
Important note
Serial No.: .............. ......................................................
The information contained in this document rep-
Year of Manufacture: ............................................... resents state-of-the-art technology as well as
the current state of knowledge.
Country of Origin: Federal Republic of Germany
Leica will not assume liability for errors that
might be contained in this manual, nor for acci-
dental damage or damage arising from the de-
livery, performance or use of this manual.
Therefore, no claims can be made based on the
text and illustrations in this instruction manual.
Leica Microsystems Nussloch GmbH reserves
the right to change technical specifications
without notice since each of our products is
subject to a policy of continuous improvement.
This document is protected under copyright
laws. Leica Microsystems Nussloch GmbH
retains all rights related to this documentation.
Any reproduction of text and illustrations - or
any parts thereof - in form of printing, photo-
copying, microfiches, or other methods, includ-
ing electronic systems, requires the prior writ-
ten permission of Leica Microsystems Nussloch
GmbH.
Issued by:
The serial number and the year of manufacture
Leica Microsystems Nussloch GmbH are specified on the nameplate at the back of
Heidelberger Str. 17 - 19 the instrument.
D-69226 Nussloch
Germany
Phone: +49 6224 143-0
Fax: +49 6224 143-200
Internet: http://www.hbu.de © Leica Microsystems Nussloch GmbH
Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 3

Table of Contents
1. Important information .................................................................................................................. 7

1.1 Symbols used in this manual and ........................................................................................................... 7
1.2 Designated use .......................................................................................................................................... 8
1.3 Qualification of personnel ........................................................................................................................ 8
2.1 General information on instrument ........................................................................................................ 9

2. Safety .............................................................................................................................................. 9
2.2 Integrated safety devices ........................................................................................................................ 9
2.2.1 Locking the handwheel ......................................................................................................................... 10
2.2.2 Centering the handwheel grip .............................................................................................................. 10
2.2.3 Emergency stop function ...................................................................................................................... 11
2.2.4 Knife guard .............................................................................................................................................. 11
2.3 Safety instructions: handling and operation of the instrument........................................................ 12
2.3.1 Transport ................................................................................................................................................. 12
2.3.2 Site requirements ................................................................................................................................... 12
2.3.3 Electrical connections ........................................................................................................................... 12
2.3.4 Handling microtome knives/blades ..................................................................................................... 13
2.3.5 Knife guard/handwheel lock ................................................................................................................. 13
2.3.6 Motorized sectioning ............................................................................................................................. 13
2.3.7 Defrosting/ ............................................................................................................................................... 13
2.3.8 Frozen parts of the instrument and ...................................................................................................... 13
2.3.9 Infectious/radioactive material ............................................................................................................ 14
2.3.10 Disinfection and cleaning ................................................................................................................... 14
2.3.11 Removing/reinstalling the microtome ............................................................................................... 15
2.3.12 Display message Dry microtome ..................................................................................................... 15
2.3.13 Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................... 15
3. Installation................................................................................................................................... 16
3.1 Site requirements .................................................................................................................................... 16
3.1.1 General site requirements .................................................................................................................... 16
3.1.2 Electrical connections ........................................................................................................................... 16
3.2 Unpacking and installation .................................................................................................................... 16
3.3 Standard delivery .................................................................................................................................... 17
4 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

Table of Contents
3.4 Installing/inserting accessories ........................................................................................................... 18

3.4.1 Installing the handwheel ....................................................................................................................... 18
3.4.2 Inserting the accessories ..................................................................................................................... 18
3.4.3 The footswitch ........................................................................................................................................ 19
3.5 Prior to switching on the instrument .................................................................................................... 19
4. Instrument Properties ................................................................................................................ 20

4.1 Overview ................................................................................................................................................... 20
4.2 Technical Data......................................................................................................................................... 22
5. Operation ..................................................................................................................................... 24
5.1 Operating the instrument for the first time .......................................................................................... 24
5.2 Switching on/fuses ................................................................................................................................. 25
5.3 Control panel 1 ......................................................................................................................................... 26
5.3.1 Key functions in control panel 1 ........................................................................................................... 26
5.3.2 Display functions in control panel 1 .................................................................................................... 26
5.3.3 Display indications when switching on .............................................................................................. 27
5.3.4 Menu functions: ...................................................................................................................................... 28
5.3.5 Status display .......................................................................................................................................... 31
5.3.6 Indication of refrigeration state, section thickness setting and counters .................................... 32
5.4 Control panel 2 ......................................................................................................................................... 33
5.4.1 Selecting a sectioning mode / .............................................................................................................. 34
5.4.2 Setting the sectioning window ............................................................................................................. 35
5.4.3 Selecting sectioning speed .................................................................................................................. 36
5.4.4 Emergency stop ...................................................................................................................................... 36
5.4.5 Coarse feed keys .................................................................................................................................... 37
5.4.6 Trimming and sectioning functions ..................................................................................................... 38
5.4.7 Setting the section thickness ............................................................................................................... 38
5.5 Daily operation of the instrument ......................................................................................................... 39
5.5.1 Freezing specimens onto specimen .................................................................................................... 39
5.5.2 Freezing specimens onto specimen .................................................................................................... 40
5.5.3 Optional accessories for freezing ........................................................................................................ 40
5.5.4 Inserting specimen discs into the ........................................................................................................ 41
Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 5

Table of contents
5.5.5 Specimen orientation ............................................................................................................................. 41

5.5.6 Trimming / sectioning ............................................................................................................................ 42
5.6 Finishing work .......................................................................................................................................... 43
5.6.1 Daily routine steps .................................................................................................................................. 43
5.6.2 Switching off the instrument for a ....................................................................................................... 43
5.7 Defrosting ................................................................................................................................................. 44
5.7.1 Automatic chamber defrost cycle ....................................................................................................... 44
5.7.2 Manual chamber defrost cycle ............................................................................................................ 45
5.7.3 Defrosting the specimen head ............................................................................................................. 45
6. Troubleshooting, applications tips ......................................................................................... 46

6.1 Displayed error messages ..................................................................................................................... 46
6.1.1 Other error indications .......................................................................................................................... 46
6.2 Potential problems - causes and remedies ........................................................................................ 47
6.3 Reference chart for temperature settings (in minus °C) .................................................................. 51
7. Disinfection, cleaning and maintenance .............................................................................. 52

7.1 Safety instructions .................................................................................................................................. 52
7.2 Spray disinfection with Leica Cryofect ................................................................................................ 52
7.3 Disinfection with conventional ............................................................................................................. 53
7.4 Cleaning .................................................................................................................................................... 53
7.5 Removing / reinstalling the microtome ................................................................................................ 54
7.5.1 Removing the microtome ...................................................................................................................... 54
7.5.2 Disassembling the specimen head ...................................................................................................... 54
7.5.3 Reinstalling the microtome ................................................................................................................... 55
7.6 Exchanging the fluorescent light lamp ................................................................................................ 56
8. Warranty and service ................................................................................................................ 57

8.1 Warranty ................................................................................................................................................... 57
8.2 Technical service information .............................................................................................................. 57
8.2.1 Important information for repairs / returns of cryostats .................................................................. 58
8.3 Shutdown and disposal of the instrument........................................................................................... 58
Appendix............................................................................................................................................... 59

1. Important information
The chapters of the Leica CM3050 S cryostat 1.1 Symbols used in this manual and
instruction manual: their meaning
Chapter 1 Structure of the manual:
Table of contents Warnings
Important information on this appear in a grey box and are
manual marked by a warning triangle .
Chapter 2 Safety
Read this chapter before
operating the instrument!
Notes
Chapter 3 Installation i.e. important user information ap-
Unpacking and installation pears in a grey box and is marked
Standard delivery, information by an information symbol.
on accessories
Chapter 4 Instrument properties
Overview Figures in brackets refer to item
Technical data (5)
numbers in drawings or to the
Chapter 5 Operation (Fig.5) drawings themselves.
Controls
Setup, daily use and shut
down
Chapter 6 Trouble shooting Instrument type:
and applications tips All information given in this instruction manual
Operating errors applies only to the instrument type indicated on
Display error messages the title page.
Temperature reference chart A name plate, indicating the instrument serial
number, is attached to the back of the instru-
Chapter 7 Disinfection, cleaning ment.
and maintenance
Required information for all inquiries:
Chapter 8 Warranty and service
For any inquiries please specify:
Appendix Electrohydraulic height adjustment Instrument type
Ordering information accessories Serial number
EC Declaration of Conformity
Alphabetical index

1. Important information
General 1.2 Designated use

This instruction manual includes important in- The Leica CM3050 S is a powerful cryostat for
structions and information related to the operat- routine as well as research applications in biol-
ing safety and maintenance of the instrument. ogy, medicine and industry.
The instruction manual is an important part of
the product. It must be read carefully before us- The instrument has been designed for rapid
ing the instrument for the first time and must al- freezing and sectioning of tissue samples.
ways be kept with the instrument.
The instrument has not been designed for un-
If additional requirements, which exceed the attended storage of tissue material.
scope of this manual, are imposed by regula-
tions and/or laws on accident prevention and
environmental protection in the country of oper- The instrument may only be operated within the
ation, appropriate instructions for compliance scope of its designated use as described above
with such requirements must be added to this and as per the instructions given in this manual.
manual.
Any other use of the instrument is considered
Read this instruction manual carefully before improper.
attempting to use or operate the instrument.
1.3 Qualification of personnel

Please pay particular attention to The Leica CM3050 S may only be operated by
chapter 2 (safety features, safety in- trained laboratory personnel.
structions). - Please read this infor-
mation, even if you are already fa- All laboratory personnel designated to operate
miliar with the operation and use of the instrument must carefully read the present
other Leica products. instruction manual prior to starting work with
the instrument.

2. Safety
2.1 General information on instrument 2.2 Integrated safety devices

design and safe handling
This instrument has been built and tested in ac- The instrument is equipped with the following
cordance with the following safety regulations safety devices:
on electrical measuring, control, regulating and
laboratory devices:
Handwheel lock
DIN EN 292 Handwheel grip centering
DIN EN 61010-1 Emergency stop function
(instruments with sectioning motor only)
EN 50082-1
Knife holder equipped with knife guard
EN 55011
IEC 1000-4
The safety devices installed by the manufactu-
rer of the instrument only constitute the basis of
as well as according to the international quality
accident prevention.
standard
Mainly responsible for accident-free operation
is above all the institution which owns the in-
DIN ISO 9001
strument and, in addition, the designated per-
sonnel who operate, service or repair the
instrument.
In order to maintain this condition and to ensure
safe operation, the operator must observe the
instructions and warnings contained in this in-
struction manual.

2. Safety
2.2.1 Locking the handwheel Instruments with sectioning motor:

The sectioning motor is now blocked.
Always cover the cutting edge with
the knife guard and lock the hand-
wheel: All instruments:
Prior to doing any work on The message LOCKED in the display of control
knife and/or specimen. panel 1 indicates that the handwheel has been
Prior to exchanging specimens. locked:
During work breaks.
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C
The handwheel can be locked in 2 positions: L O C K E D
with the grip in the uppermost position (left), Unlocking:
with the grip in the lowest position (right). To unlock, push locking pin (2) to the left into
position (2a).
Display indication LOCKED disappears.
2
Instruments with sectioning motor:
The sectioning motor can now be activated
again.
2.2.2 Centering the handwheel grip
During motorized sectioning, for

safety reasons always center the
2 handwheel grip!
Locking:
Rotate handwheel, until grip (1) is in upper or To center grip (1), pull outwards and pivot
lower position. into center of handwheel.
To lock, press pin (2) to the right into position
(2b). When released, the grip locks into position.
--> The upper locking position for pin (2) is

marked by a black dot (4).

2. Safety
2.2.3 Emergency stop function 2.2.4 Knife guard

(instruments with sectioning
motor only)
The emergency stop is activated via the red All knife holders are equipped with a knife
emergency stop button in control panel 2 or via guard (--> see separate instruction manuals on
the footswitch knife holders).
Always cover the cutting edge with

the knife guard:
Prior to doing any work on knife
and/ or specimen.
Control panel 2
Prior to exchanging specimens.
During work breaks.
Footswitch
Activating the emergency stop function

Press emergency stop button or step on
footswitch forcefully.
--> STOP (red) lights up.
As soon as the emergency stop function is acti-
vated, the sectioning motor stops.
Deactivating the emergency stop

To deactivate, rotate emergency stop button
in direction of arrow.
If the emergency stop function has
been activated by the footswitch,
unlocking is not necessary (func-
tion is unlocked as soon as the foot-
switch is released).

2. Safety
2.3 Safety instructions: handling and operation of the instrument

2.3.1 Transport 2.3.3 Electrical connections
To avoid severe damage to the instrument by Do not use extension cords for connecting
running it while the compressor oil is dis- the instrument to mains.
placed from its regular position: --> Fire hazard!
Do not tilt the instrument, --> Instrument malfunctions caused by
only transport in an upright position. voltage drop.
After transport, wait at least 4 hours be- During the start-up phase of the compressor,
fore turning the instrument on. the nominal voltage must not drop below the
--> The compressor oil may have been values specified in chapter 4.2 Technical
displaced during transport and must data!
settle to its original position be- --> The compressor needs a start-up current
fore switchingthe instrument on. at between 25 and 35 A (see chapter 4.2
Otherwise, the instrument may be Technical data)
severely damaged.
Ensure uniform current supply according to
specifications.
2.3.2 Site requirements --> Electrical power supply deviating from
Do not operate the instrument in rooms with specifications damages the instrument.
explosion hazard. Therefore, arrange for the electrical in-
To ensure proper instrument function main- stallations on site to be checked by a
tain a minimum distance of 10 cm between trained professional and make sure any
walls and/or furniture and all sides of the in- necessary upgrades are installed!
strument! Have the circuit protected by a fuse of its
own!
Do not connect any other consumers to
the same circuit.
Prior to connecting the instrument to
mains, make sure the electrical power
supply in your laboratory corresponds to
the values indicated on the instrument
nameplate (located at the rear of the in-
strument)!

2. Safety
2.3.4 Handling microtome knives/blades 2.3.7 Defrosting/

Handling frozen tissue
Danger!
--> Microtome knives and disposable blades Never leave specimens unattended in the
have extremely sharp cutting edges and cryochamber over an extended period of
can cause serious injuries. Therefore: time!
Handle knives / blades with utmost care. --> In case of power failure or instrument
Never leave any knives / blades in unpro- failure, or during the automatic defrost cy-
tected places! cle, tissue material can be destroyed.
Never place a knife, no matter where, During the defrost cycle the cryochamber is
with the cutting edge facing upwards. partially warmed. - Therefore:
Never try to catch a falling knife. Remove sensitive specimens from the
Always insert the specimen before chamber prior to defrosting.
inserting the knife. If automatic defrosting is programmed to
take place during the night, remember to
remove all specimens from the cryo-
2.3.5 Knife guard/handwheel lock chamber prior to leaving work.
Always cover the cutting edge with the knife
guard and lock the handwheel:
Prior to doing any work on knife and / or 2.3.8 Frozen parts of the instrument and
specimen. frozen accessories
Prior to exchanging specimens.
Prolonged contact of bare skin to frozen
During work breaks.
surfaces of the instrument or to frozen
accessories (specimen discs, knife holder,
shelves etc.) can cause frostbite.
2.3.6 Motorized sectioning
Wear protective gloves.
Do not interrupt sectioning / trimming by set-
ting the sliding potentiometer to zero speed!
--> This does not really switch the sectioning
function off - it only operates at 0 speed.
If the sliding potentiometer is accidental-
ly moved, the instrument will resume sec-
tioning immediately (risk of injury)!
During motorized sectioning, always center
the handwheel grip!

2. Safety
2.3.9 Infectious/radioactive material 2.3.10 Disinfection and cleaning

Danger! Prior to disinfection, switch the instrument
Use caution when working with potentially off and unplug it from mains.
infectious specimens:
For removal of the microtome from the cryo-
-->Risk of infection! chamber see chapter 2.3.11 Removing the
When working with potentially infectious / microtome.
radioactive specimens: For disinfection, wear protective gear:
Wear protective clothes (gloves, protec- (gloves, mask, lab coat etc.)!
tive boots, mask, lab coat), in compliance
For disinfection, only use alcohol-based dis-
with radiation safety regulations and/or infectants!
in-house regulations on handling infec-
tious / radioactive material. Do not use solvents (xylene, acetone etc.)
for cleaning or disinfection!
When working with radioactive specimens:
Do not spray disinfectants into the evapora-
Comply with applicable radiation safety
tor!
regulations! --> Risk of icing!
Dispose of radioactive specimen waste ac-
cording to applicable regulations. Explosion hazard when working with alcohol:
Make sure the premises are appropriately
ventilated!
When using disinfectants and detergents,
comply with all safety instructions supplied
by the manufacturer of the product!
Dispose of waste liquids from disinfection/
cleaning as well as of sectioning waste ac-
cording to applicable regulations on disposal
of special category waste!
Disinfected accessories must be thoroughly
dry when reinserting them into the chamber!
--> Risk of icing!
Make sure the chamber is completely dry
before switching the instrument back on:
--> Explosion hazard through alcohol vapors!
--> Risk of icing!

2. Safety
2.3.11 Removing/reinstalling the microtome 2.3.12 Display message Dry microtome

Before removing the microtome: If the error message Dry Microtome is dis-
Switch instrument off. played in control panel 1, the following has
Unplug from mains. happened:
Place handwheel grip in lowest position Cryochamber refrigeration has been in-
and lock. terrupted for an extended period of time
--> When removing the microtome, the (e.g. power failure), causing the chamber
specimen head must always be lok- temperature to rise into the positive
ked in the lowest position. digits.
Otherwise the upper part of the slot If this message appears, do not switch on
cover might be bent and consequently the instrument but remove the microtome
damaged! from the chamber, disinfect, if necessary,
and dry thoroughly before reinstalling it
When removing the microtome: into the chamber (see chapter 7.1 to 7.5).
Wear gloves when removing the micro-
tome while it is still frozen.
--> Risk of frost bite! 2.3.13 Maintenance
On instruments with specimen cooling: Only technical service engineers authorized
do not distort the refrigerating tube! by Leica may access the internal compo-
If distorted it might break, causing ex- nents of the instrument for service and re-
tremely cold refrigerant to escape. - - pair.
> Risk of frost bite!
The fluorescent light lamp (chamber illumi-
Before reinstalling the microtome: nation), unless broken or splintered, can be
Microtome must be completely dry. -- replaced by the user:
>Humidity in the interior of the micro- Switch off mains switch!
tome freezes and causes Unplug the instrument from mains!
microtome malfunctions and/or If the lamp is broken or splintered:
damage to the microtome. Have lamp replaced by Leica Technical
Service!
All accessories/tools removed from the
--> Risk of injury!
cryochamber must be thoroughly dry be-
fore putting them back into the chamber! Use only those replacement lamps that cor-
respond to technical specification (see
-->Risk of icing! chapter 4.2 Technical Data).

3. Installation
3.1 Site requirements 3.2 Unpacking and installation

Unpacking instructions are always located in a
Make sure to read and follow all
transparent protective envelope on the outside
safety instructions in chapter 2.3.2
of the instrument shipping crate.
Site requirements!
safety instructions provided in
chapter 2.3.1 Transport and on the
3.1.1 General site requirements unpacking instructions!
No direct sunlight.
Electrical power supply within distance 3.2.1 Repacking
(length of power cord = approx. 4 meters -
do not use extension cords!). We recommend to keep the original shipping
No draft (caused by air conditioning etc.). crate and the unpacking instructions for the
Even floor surface. Leica CM3050 S.
Practically vibration-free floor.
Handwheel easily accessible. For repacking, proceed as per unpacking in-
Room temperature constantly below +22 °C. structions, in reverse order.
Relative humidity of air maximum 60 %.
High ambient temperature and/or

high air humidity negatively affect
instrument cooling performance!
3.1.2 Electrical connections

safety instructions in chapter 2.3.3
Electrical connections!

3. Installation
3.3 Standard delivery Further accessories:

Together with the Leica CM3050 S instrument Further accessories which you ordered will be
you receive a box containing the following stan- included in the box containing the standard de-
dard accessories: livery items.
1 Handwheel (including screw,
spring washer and cover disc)
1 Heat extractor, stationary
1 Low-temperature stabilizer Knife holders are delivered with
for heat extractor anti-roll guide, knife guard, and a
3 Specimen discs, 30 mm ø separate instruction manual.
1 Storage shelf, right
1 Storage shelf, left In case of non-configured instru-
1 Section waste tray ments, the knife holder is not a
1 Rubber mat part of standard delivery but must
1 Cover for quick-freeze shelf be ordered separately.
2 Brushes (brush, fine and Leica brush)
1 Shelf for brushes
1 Tool set
- 1 Allen key, size 4 Check all delivered parts against the pack-
- 1 Allen key, size 5 ing list and against your order to verify
- 1 Allen key, size 6 whether the delivery is complete!
- Single-ended open-jaw wrench If there is any difference, contact your local
1 Bottle of embedding medium for Leica office immediately.
cryosectioning, 125 ml
1 Bottle of cryostat oil No. 407, 100 ml
1 Instruction manual
(German, English, French, Spanish) Available models
Basic instrument
In addition to the above: - with sectioning motor
Instruments with specimen cooling: - without specimen cooling
1 90° Prism
for low temperature quick freezing Basic instrument
- without sectioning motor
Instruments with sectioning motor: - with specimen cooling
1 Footswitch with protective guard
Basic instrument
Configured instruments:
1 Knife holder base - with sectioning motor
1 Knife holder with accessories - with specimen cooling

3. Installation
3.4 Installing/inserting accessories 3.4.2 Inserting the accessories

3.4.1 Installing the handwheel Place the rubber mat on top of the housing.
Insert pin (1) of the handwheel shaft into Insert the storage shelves into the cryo-
hole (2). chamber.
Place spring washer (3) onto screw (4) as Install the stationary heat extractor into the
shown. quick-freeze shelf (see also drawing in
chapter 5.5.1 Freezing specimens onto
Tighten screw (4) with an Allen key.
specimen discs).
Cover with selfadhesive disc (5).
Insert the low temperature stabilizer into the
quick freeze shelf (it must be located in the
pivoting range of the heat extractor - see
also drawing in chapter 5.5.1 Freezing spec-
imens onto specimen discs).
Insert section waste tray and brush shelf.
Install knife holder base onto microtome
base plate and clamp.
Install knife holder and clamp (see knife
holder instruction manual for details).
Place knife case with knife into chamber to
precool.
Place all tools needed for section prepara-
tion into the chamber.
For purposes of transport (e.g. nar-
row doors), the handwheel can be Close the sliding window.
removed.
For a complete overview of all indi-
To remove the handwheel, proceed as de- vidual parts:
scribed above but in reverse order. --> see Chapter 4.1 Overview.

3. Installation
3.4.3 The footswitch Connecting the footswitch

Insert footswitch into port (1) and secure.
1
Function
The footswitch performs the same task as the
RUN/STOP and RUN/ENABLE keys (activating/ 3.5 Prior to switching on the instrument
deactivating motorized sectioning / trimming).
In addition, the footswitch can be used to acti- After transport, observe a waiting pe-
vate the emergency stop function. riod of at least 4 hours before turning
the instrument on! - See also safety
instructions in chapter 2.3.1 Trans-
Models with footswitch: port.
All instruments with sectioning motor.
Have you observed all safety in-

structions in chapters 2.3.2 Site re-
Important note:
quirements and 2.3.3 Electrical
In all instrument models that are
connections?
delivered with footswitch, the foot-
If not:
switch must be installed! - Other-
--> Please read chapters 2.3.2 and
wise the instruments are not func-
2.3.3!
tional.
Insert mains plug into wall outlet.

Continue with chapter 5.1 Setting up the in-
strument.

4. Instrument Properties
4.1 Overview
1 Cryostat CM3050 S
2 Control panel 1
3 Control panel 2
4 4 Storage shelf, left
2 5 5 Storage shelf, right
3
6 Rubber mat
7 Mains switch /
Automatic cutout
6 for instrument,
Automatic cutout
for sectioning motor,
Footswitch port
8 Quick-freeze shelf
9 Stationary
heat extractor
10 Mobile heat extractor
11 Specimen disc
9 12 Thermoblock (optional)
10 13 Section waste tray
14 Brush shelf
15 Specimen head w/o
specimen cooling
16 Specimen head with
specimen cooling
(Option)
17 90° Prism
1
(instruments with
11
8 specimen cooling
7 only)
18 Knife holder base
19 Knife holder CE
20 Knife holder CN
12 21 Knife holder CS
22 22 Footswitch with
protective guard

4. Instrument Properties
15
16
11
11
13
17
14
21
20
19
18

4. Instrument properties
4.2 Technical Data
Operating temperature range (ambient temperature): + 18°C to + 40°C. All specifications related to tempe-
rature are valid only up to an ambient temperature of + 22°C and relative air humidity of less than 60%!
Type CM3050S-10 CM3050S-1 CM3050S-8 CM3050S-9

Marks of conformity - - - -
Nominal voltage 100 V AC ±10% 230 V AC ±10% 240 V AC ±10% 100 V AC ±10%
Nominal frequency 50 Hz 50 Hz 50 Hz 60 Hz
Power draw 1800 VA 1800 VA 1800 VA 1800 VA
Max. start-up current for 5 sec 35 A eff. 25 A eff. 25 A eff. 30 A eff.
Protective fuse I I I I
Automatic cutout T15A M3 T10A T1 T10A T1 T15A M3
Pollution degree 2 2 2 2
Overvoltage installation category II II II II
Heat emission (max.) 1800 J/s 1800 J/s 1800 J/s 1800 J/s
Refrigeration system 50 Hz 60 Hz
Cryochamber
Temperature selection range 0° C to -40°C (+ 2 K / - 0 K) 0° C to -40°C (+2 K / - 0 K)
Defrosting Automatic hot-gas defrost cycle, Automatic hot-gas defrost cycle,
programmable in 15-min increments; programmable in 15-min. increments;
1 automatic defrost cycle per 24 hours. 1 automatic defrost cycle per 24 hours.
Duration: 6 - 12 minutes Duration: 6 - 12 minutes
Manual defrost cycle Manual defrost cycle
Refrigeration capacity 690 W 690 W
Safety factor 3 3
Refrigerant 280 g ±5g refrigerant R 404A * 280 g ±5g refrigerant R 404A*
Compressor oil 0.6 l EMKARATE RL-22S, ICI * 0.6 l EMKARATE RL-22S, ICI *
Quick-freeze shelf
Maximum temperature - 43°C (+ 0 K / - 2 K) - 43°C (+ 0 K / - 2 K)
Number of quick-freeze stations 10 10
Specimen cooling (Option)

Temperature range -10° C to -50°C ±3K -10° C to -50°C ±3K
Defrosting Manual defrost cycle (electric) Manual defrost cycle (electric)
Refrigeration capacity 320 W 320 W
Safety factor 3 3
Refrigerant 185 g ±5g refrigerant R 404A * 185 g ±5g refrigerant R 404A *
Compressor oil 0.4 l alpha 22, Kyodo * 0.4 l alpha 22, Kyodo *
or RENISO E22, Fuchs * or RENISO E22, Fuchs *

4. Instrument properties
*) Refrigerant and compressor oil to be replaced only by trained and authorized service
personnel!
CM3050S-3 CM3050S-6 CM3050S-7 Microtome

c-UL - - Rotary microtome
120 V AC ±10% 208 V AC ±10% 230 V AC ±10% Section thickness setting 0.5 - 300 µm
60 Hz 60 Hz 60 Hz Overall specimen feed 25 mm
1800 VA 1800 VA 1800 VA Vertical stroke 59 mm
35 A eff. 30 A eff. 25 A eff. Specimen retraction 50 µm
I I I Maximum specimen size 40 x 55 mm
T15A T1 T12A T1 T10A T1 Specimen orientation 8° (x-, y-, z-axis)
2 2 2 Trimming (6 thickness settings) 5 - 150 µm
II II II Motorized coarse feed
1800 J/s 1800 J/s 1800 J/s - slow 500 µm/s
- fast 1,000 µm/s
Fluorescent light lamp (cryochamber illumination): Sectioning motor (Option):

Sectioning speed
50 Hz version: Osram Dulux S 11 W/21 - slow min. 0.1 mm/s
Light color LUMILUX hellweiß max. 100 mm/s
(brilliant white) vmax 210 mm/s
60 Hz version: Osram Dulux S 13 W/21 - fast min. 0.1 mm/s
Light color LUMILUX hellweiß max. 170 mm/s
(brilliant white) vmax 210 mm/s
Cryocabinet
Dimensions 1 according to IEC-1010, UL 3101
Width (w/o handwheel) 800 mm
2 according to CECOMAF:
Width (including handwheel) 882 mm
Depth 766 mm Liquid temperature 45°C
Height (arm rest level) 840 mm Evaporation temperature -25°C
Overall height 1040 mm
Weight
(incl. microtome, w/o specimen cooling) ca. 180 kg

5. Operation
5.1 Operating the instrument for the first time
Prior to setting up the instrument, make sure to read the instruction manual
carefully and in full.
When setting up the instrument, please follow the individual chapters in the
following order:
First, study chapters 1, 2, and 3 - install the instrument as described in

chapter 3.
The overview in chapter 4.1 is helpful during the unpacking and instal-
lation procedure in order to identify individual parts and place them in
the correct location.
Go on to chapter 5.
Read chapters 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 to learn all about the controls.
Next, start to work with the instrument (chapter 5.5). Follow the instruc-
tions in chapter 5.5.
Chapter 5.5.2 applies to instruments with specimen cooling only.
The temperature chart in chapter 6.3 is useful when it comes to select-
ing appropriate sectioning temperatures for different types of speci-
mens.
When disinfecting / cleaning the instrument and/or removing / rein-
stalling the microtome, please follow the instructions in chapter 7.
In case of problems and malfunctions, please refer to chapters 6.1 and
6.2. These chapters list the most common types of problems which
many times have simple causes that can be eliminated by the actual
user.
If you find Call Technical Service in the Remedy column, please do
so. Never try to solve these problems yourself!

5. Operation
5.2 Switching on/fuses Automatic cutout for sectioning motor:

The instrument is equipped with an automatic
cutout (2) for the sectioning motor.
If the sectioning motor is overloaded (e.g. when
sectioning extremely hard specimens etc.) the
automatic cutout (2) will be triggered.
To make the instrument functional again after

the automatic cutout (2) has been triggered:
2 (Automatic cutout
for sectioning motor) Push automatic cutout (2) inwards until it
locks into position.
1 (Combination Mains switch
/automatic cutout for the instrument)
Switching on
To switch on the instrument, place switch
(1) in upper lock-in position.
Mains switch / automatic cutout for the

instrument:
In addition to its function as ON/OFF switch,
switch (1) is also the automatic cutout for the
instrument.
If the automatic cutout has been triggered (e.g.
caused by overcurrent):
Put switch (1) back in upper lock-in position.

5. Operation
5.3 Control panel 1
5.3.1 Key functions in control panel 1 5.3.2 Display functions in control panel 1
ON/OFF key for cryochamber illumination. The display in control panel 1 combines several
different functions:
1. When switching the instrument on:
To select the menu items for setting /
A series of standard indications is displayed,
changing instrument parameters. during which two basic parameters can be se-
lected (with the arrow keys):
Language (of display indications) and speed
In the status indication, pressing the ar- level of sectioning motor.
row keys displays the individual current See chapter 5.3.3 Display indications when
parameters. switching on.
In the menu, pressing the arrow keys
2. Menu function (activated via menu key):
changes set values.
Via the menu key a number of parameters can
As soon as a value is displayed, it is au- be selected, then be activated /deactivated via
tomatically stored. the lock/unlock key and/or changed via the ar-
row keys.
Activates the manual defrost cycle (cry- See chapter 5.3.4 Menu functions: Setting param-
ochamber). This key is functional only eters of refrigeration, time and preset counter.
when one of the menu items SET TEMP
3. Status indication function:
CT ... °C or SET TEMP OT ... °C (last
one only applies to instruments with The actual status of selected parameters is in-
dicated in the display screen.
specimen cooling) has been selected Some of those parameters are displayed auto-
first. matically (e.g. sectioning stroke phase, coarse
feed position, handwheel locked).
Lock / unlock key: Others can be displayed by pressing the arrow
- Locks the display to protect against keys; e.g. selected section thickness, preset
accidental changes of set parameters. counter status etc.
- Activates / deactivates a number of See chapter 5.3.5 Status indication and chap-
functions. ter 5.3.6 Displaying state of refrigeration, sec-
tion thickness and counters.

5. Operation
5.3.3 Display indications when switching on

Meaning of indication: Operator activity:
Initialization phase 1 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 ---
8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
Initialization phase 2 n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n ---

n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n
C M3 0 5 0 S V s . X X . X X
Software version ---
E NG L I S H
Selected display language Select language via
keys
C U T T I N G MO T O R
Sectioning motor speed S L OW
level slow / (fast) Select speed level via
keys
yes Temperature prior to
no
switching off < 0 °C
Temperature upon
switching on ³ 0 °C no
C T . . . .°C O T . . . . ° C *)
P OW E R F A I L U R E
yes
Acknowledge indication by
pressing once briefly.
C T . . . .°C O T . . . . ° C *)
D R Y M I C R O T OME C T . . . .°C O T . . . . ° C *)
1 2 : 0 0
Standard indication locked is displayed:
If this indication is displayed: Do not switch on (Display background dark)
the instrument! To unlock: press until the display back-
Prior to switching on, both microtome and ac- ground lights up:
cessories must be completely dry!
Remove microtome/accessories, disinfect if
applicable, then dry thoroughly and reinstall. C T . . . .°C O T . . . . ° C
(--> See chapters 7.1 - 7.5). n n H OM E dd
*) Indication in instruments with specimen cooling. Instruments without specimen cooling: only CT (centered) is displayed.

5. Operation
5.3.4 Menu functions:

setting parameters of refrigeration, time and preset counter
Once the instrument has gone through the initial 1. Specimen temperature:
sequence of indications, you can go on to the (instruments with specimen cooling only)
menu functions to select and/or change instru-
ment parameters. Press key until menu item Set specimen
temperature is displayed:
If display is locked: S E T T EMP O T - - - ° C
Press key until display background - -
lights up.
Press key briefly.
Next, press the menu key. With each key stroke The line in the specimen temperature
the following parameters will be displayed (dis-
field is replaced by an asterisk.
play sequence as listed):
S E T T EMP O T - - - ° C
1. Specimen temperature - d
(in instruments with specimen cooling only)
(-10 - -50 °C) From this point on the refrigeration sys-
tem is activated and the desired set
2. Cryochamber temperature temperature can be selected with one
(0 - -40 °C) of the arrow keys.
3. Selected number of sections - preset Press arrow key and release upon
counter reaching the desired value.
(ON/OFF and setting selection from 1 to 999) C T . . . .°C O T - 3 5 ° C
n n H O M E - d
4. Maximum specimen temperature
(ON/OFF) Note on the arrow key function:
5. Real time Each time one of the arrow keys is pressed
(in 1-minute steps) briefly, the value displayed in the menu will be
changed one step up or down.
6. Defrost time (starting time of automatic
If an arrow key is pressed and held, the value
cryochamber defrosting)
(in 15-minute steps) will change continually (auto-repeat function).
When holding the key, scrolling speed will in-
7. Duration of defrost cycle crease after a while.
(cryochamber defrosting) As soon as a value is displayed, it is at the same
(6 to 12 minutes duration) time automatically stored.
Menu items 5 and 6 displayed on 24 hour clock.

5. Operation
2. Cryochamber temperature: Now there are two options:

Press key until menu item Set chamber 1. Increase or decrease the actual reference
temperature is displayed: value by pressing or .
--> Continue as described for 2. Press and simultaneously in order to
specimen temperature. reload the former reference value (0 when
3. Preset counter setting up the instrument) and then press ei-
(instruments with sectioning motor only): ther or individually in order to select
the desired reference value. Depending on
Press key until menu item Preset where you start from and where you want to
counter is displayed: go, method 1 or method 2 is quicker (see ex-
P R E S E T CO U N T E R amples).
d n - - -
= Preset counter activated Example 1:
P R E S E T CO U N T E R Actual preset counter reading = 50
d n 0 5 6 Former reference value = 300
= Preset counter deactivated New reference value of 65 to be selected.
Method 1 is most convenient:
Preset counter function:
Increase from 50 to 65 by pressing .
The preset counter allows the user to carry out
a predefined number of sections in the Continu-
ous stroke sectioning mode. Example 2:
Once the preselected number of sections has Actual preset counter reading = 50
been carried out (= section counter reading 0),
Former reference value = 300
the specimen head will stop automatically in the
lower limit position. New reference value of 320 to be selected.
Method 2 is most convenient:
The reference value (i.e. the value from which Press and simultaneously to
the preset counter counts downward) can be
reload old reference value (300):
selected in the corresponding menu item.
Increase from 300 to 320 by pressing .
In order to be able to set a reference value, the
preset counter function must be active. For further information on the preset counter,
please refer to chapter 5.3.6, Item 4 Preset
If the preset counter is deactivated (see diagrams counter.
above), press to activate.

5. Operation
4. Quick-freezing at maximum specimen The automatic defrost cycle takes place once
temperature* (instruments with specimen every 24 hours at the selected defrost time.
cooling only)
7. Duration of defrost cycle:
Press key until menu item Fast object Press key until menu item Defrost period
freezing is displayed: is displayed:
F A S T O B J F R E E Z I N
O F F
D E F R O S T P E R I O D
or C HAMB E R : 0 8 M I N
F A S T O B J F R E E Z I N Use defrost keys ( or ) to adjust de-
O N frost time. (Only if necessary - see below).
Press lock/unlock key to activate or de-
activate (ON/OFF). Important information for setting the
defrost parameters
5. Real time Starting time of defrost cycle:

We recommend to program the au-
Press key until menu item Time is dis-
tomatic defrost cycle for a time out-
played: side regular working hours as a
T I ME 1 0 : 2 3 period of 4 hours should pass after
the defrost cycle before work with
the instrument is resumed (see also
Use arrow keys ( or ) to set real time. chapter 5.7.1 Automatic chamber
Setting minutes as well as hours in defrost cycle).
1-minute steps. Holding arrow button in-
creases scrolling speed! Defrost cycle duration:
The duration of the chamber defrost
cycle is set to 8 minutes in factory.
6. Starting time of automatic defrost cycle: This setting should only be
Press key until menu item Defrost time is changed, if the evaporator is not
displayed: completely de-iced during the
8-minute cycle.
D E F R T I ME 4 : 3 0 In such cases, increase the defrost
cycle duration gradually until the
(Time on display = start time of defrost the evaporator is ice-free after de-
frosting.
cycle)
The selected defrost cycle duration
Use arrow keys ( or ) to select the de- is valid for both automatic and
sired defrost start time. manual chamber defrost cycle.
*) with 90° prism - see also chapter 5.5.2.

5. Operation
5.3.5 Status display

Each individual parameter is displayed in a certain area of the display screen.
Upper line:
In the menu (see chapter 5.3.4): indication of selected menu item.
Standard indication: Chamber temperature (instruments with specimen cooling: chamber and specimen temperature)
Standard indication upper line:

Instruments with chamber and specimen cooling Instruments with chamber cooling only
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C C T - 3 0 ° C
n n H OM E dd n n H O M E d -
Upper line 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Lower line 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Digits 1 and 2 Digits 3 - 6 Digits 7 - 16

indicate sectioning stroke position: indicate coarse feed position: indicate the following parameters:
Sectioning stroke Rear limit position: HOME Refrigeration status:
(outside sectioning window) Front limit position: STOP Digit 15 = cryochamber
n: Retraction stroke Digit 16 = specimen
Meaning of
[ ]: Sectioning stroke Indication of malfunction or
refrigeration
- Refrigeration OFF
(inside sectioning window) handwheel locked:
Microtome plug loose, symbols: d Refrigeration ON
implausible values etc.: ????
Sectioning Defrosting active
Handwheel is locked: LOCKED d
stroke
○
○
Section thickness
○
Indication LOCKED completely

○
Sectioning window [
○
○
overlays digits 3 through 16, (set value)

]
○
○
○ ○
i.e. while LOCKED is displayed, no Section counter

○
other parameters will be displayed (actual value)

in digits 3 - 16 of the lower line.
Indication of total section thickness
○
○
nn Further indications: see chapter 6.1 (actual value)

○
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
Retraction stroke Error messages indicated in the Preset counter

display screen
Digits 7 - 16:
Scroll via arrow buttons to display
individual parameters

5. Operation
5.3.6 Indication of refrigeration state, section thickness setting and counters

These parameters can be displayed via the ar- 4. Total section thickness counter
row keys.
When pressing , the parameters are dis- C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C
played in the sequence listed on this page; å µ 0 0 0 0 . 0
when pressing , they are displayed in re- Can also be set to 0 at any time (via key).
verse order. The display can be scrolled contin- If the total section thickness indication is not set to
uously, i.e. after the last parameter the display 0 manually, the instrument counts up to maximum
will automatically start again with the first. 9999.5 µm at which point the counter will automati-
cally switch back to 0.
1. Refrigeration state This indication shows the total thickness of all
sections carried out since the counter was last
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C set to 0. (All sections, in sectioning and trim-
n n H O M E dd ming mode, are counted).
Meaning of the refrigeration symbols (asterisks):
--> see chapter 5.3.5 Status indication. 5. Preset counter
2. Section thickness C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C
d n 0 5 6
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C
µ 0 1 0 . 0 Setting preset counter to 0:
The sectioning thickness is set with the or Press key.
key (see chapter 5.4.7 Setting the section can also be pressed while the continuous
thickness). sectioning mode is in motion; in this case the
preset counter is set to 0 and sectioning stops
3. Section counter upon reaching the lower limit position.
After it has been set to 0, the preset counter is
inactive.
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C
å n 0 0 0
Reloading the former reference value:
Once displayed (via arrow keys), the section Press and simultaneously.
counter can be set to 0 at any time.
Reloading the former reference value is possible
To set to 0 press .
also while the continuous sectioning mode is in
If the section counter is not set to 0 by the user motion:
at some point, sections are counted up to 999 Upon pressing both arrow keys, the instrument
at which point the counter automatically continues sectioning without interruption, start-
switches back to 0. ing to count down from the old reference value.

5. Operation
5.4 Control panel 2
Instruments without sectioning motor Instruments with sectioning motor

In instruments without sec- In instruments with section-
tioning motor, control panel ing motor, the control panel
2 only consists of functional is equipped with three func-
area B (see below) tional areas: A, B and C (see
large diagram).
A
Functional area A:
Sectioning modes
Sectioning window
Sectioning speed
Emergency stop function
B B
Functional area B: Functional area B:
Coarse feed Coarse feed
Trimming Trimming
Section thickness selection Section thickness selection
C
Functional area C:
Start / Stop sectioning

5. Operation
Functional areas A and C - Instruments with sectioning motor only
5.4.1 Selecting a sectioning mode / Start / stop motorized sectioning

start and stop sectioning Sectioning mode 1 - Intermittent stroke:
Three different sectioning modes can be select- Simultaneously press and hold RUN/STOP and
ed for motorized sectioning: RUN/ENABLE or depress and hold footswitch.
To stop the sectioning stroke, release the
Sectioning mode 1 - Intermittent stroke: keys or the footswitch:
The specimen head travels up and The specimen head stops immediately.
down as long as the RUN/STOP and
RUN/ENABLE keys are pressed simulta- Sectioning mode 2 - Continuous stroke:
neously or as long as the footswitch is Simultaneously press and release RUN/STOP
depressed. and RUN/ENABLE or depress and release
footswitch.
Sectioning mode 2 - Continuous stroke: To stop sectioning:
The specimen head travels up and down
Press and release RUN/STOP or RUN/EN-
until it is stopped by pressing RUN/STOP
ABLE or depress and release the footswitch:
or RUN/ENABLE or by depressing the
footswitch. The specimen head stops upon reaching the
lower limit position.
Sectioning mode 3 - Single stroke:
The specimen head carries out one sec- Sectioning mode 3 - Single stroke:
tioning stroke and then stops in the low- Simultaneously press and release RUN/STOP
er limit position. and RUN/ENABLE or depress and release
footswitch.
Activating a sectioning mode The instrument carries out one complete
section / retraction stroke and the specimen
Press one of the three sectioning mode keys de-
head stops upon reaching the lower limit po-
scribed above. While a sectioning mode is ac- sition.
tive, the LED in the corresponding key will be il-
luminated.
While sectioning is in motion, LED RUN is illu-
minated.
While the sectioning motor is deactivated, LED
STOP is illuminated.
Both LEDs are located in functional area C.

5. Operation

5.4.2 Setting the sectioning window The value has been stored when the LED in the
sectioning window key lights up briefly.
The term Sectioning window stands for a dif-
If the LED flashes, the value has not yet been
ferent (slower) speed setting in that part of the
stored, because the user has tried to set a win-
sectioning stroke where the specimen is actual-
dow margin outside the possible window range
ly cut, while the remaining sectioning stroke
(the area in which the sectioning window can
(above and below the specimen) as well as the
be set is slightly smaller than the total section
retraction (return) stroke are carried out at a
stroke).
higher speed level (time-saving feature).
In that case, repeat the step in question.
If a sectioning window is set, speed inside the
window is as set on the control panel. Outside .
the sectioning window the specimen head trav-
els at a proportionately higher speed. The sectioning window cannot be
deleted. If need be, it can be set to
maximum size (i.e. almost the en-
Always set the sectioning window tire sectioning stroke will be car-
while in the sectioning stroke (speci- ried out at one and the same
men moves downward). Setting the speed).
window in retraction stroke (speci-
men travels upward) is not possible. Every time after the instrument is
disconnected from mains, the sec-
tioning window is set to maximum
Position lower edge of specimen approx. size upon switching back on. This
3 mm above the knife edge (rotate hand- also applies when the instrument is
wheel clockwise). switched on for the first time.
Press sectioning window key.
Position upper edge of specimen just below

the knife edge (continue to rotate the hand-
wheel clockwise).
Press sectioning window key once

more.

5. Operation
5.4.3 Selecting sectioning speed 5.4.4 Emergency stop

Sectioning speed is selected via the sliding Activate by:
potentiometer. Speed can be changed while either pressing the emergency stop
sectioning is in motion. button forcefully (must lock in
position),
or depressing the footswitch force-
Caution when working in continuous mode: fully.
If the slider is set to 0, the sectioning motion Either way, sectioning is interrupted at once.
stops, however, the actual sectioning mode is
In both cases, the red LED in functional
still active - just operating at 0 speed.
area A lights up, indicating that the emergency
If the slider is accidentally moved, sectioning stop function has been activated. Simultaneously
will be resumed! - Risk of injury! all 3 sectioning modes are deactivated
(= all 3 LEDs off).
Therefore:
To deactivate the emergency stop function,
rotate the button in the direction of the ar-
Do not interrupt sectioning / trim-
row until it unlocks and slips upward into its
ming by setting the sliding potenti-
original position.
ometer to zero speed!
See also safety instruction in Chap- As soon as the emergency stop button has been
ter 2.3.6 Motorized sectioning. unlocked, the red LED is extinguished.
If the emergency stop function has been ac-

tivated with the footswitch, unlocking is not
Vmax key
necessary.
As long as the button is pressed, the As soon as the footswitch is released, the red
sectioning motion is carried out at maxi- LED is extinguished.
mum speed (210 mm/s).
To continue work, select one of sectioning
modes 1 - 3 and restart the sectioning
While Vmax is active, the sectioning window is motion.
inactive.
When the Vmax key is released, the sectioning See also chapter 2.2.3 Safety - Emergency stop
window becomes active again. function for further information on the emer-
gency stop.

5. Operation
Functional area B - all models
5.4.5 Coarse feed keys Coarse feed fast forward

- Travelling speed 1,000 µm/s
The four coarse feed keys in functional area B
function as follows:
To activate the function, press and hold.
Coarse feed fast backward The specimen head travels forward (= to-
- Travelling speed 1,000 µm/s wards the knife) as long as the key is held.
Press key to activate. Coarse feed slow forward

Specimen head travels backward - Travelling speed 500 µm/s
(= away from knife):
a. until it reaches the rear limit position, To activate the function, press and hold.
The specimen head travels forward
b. until it is stopped by pressing one of the (= towards the knife) as long as the key is
coarse feed keys (to stop the function, any held.
of the four coarse feed keys can be
pressed).
STOP-LED (located in key
Coarse feed fast forward)
Coarse feed slow backward
- Travelling speed 500 µm/s
As long as the forward coarse feed (both fast
To start, press and hold. and slow) is in motion, the STOP LED is illumi-
Specimen head travels backward (= away nated.
from knife) as long as the key is held.
Upon reaching the front limit position, the
LED HOME (located in key STOP LED starts flashing and the display in
Coarse feed fast backward) control panel 1 reads STOP.
As long as the backward coarse feed (both fast

and slow) is in motion, the HOME LED is
illuminated.
Upon reaching the rear limit position, the
HOME LED starts flashing and the display in
control panel 1 reads HOME.

5. Operation
Functional area B - all models
5.4.6 Trimming and sectioning functions 5.4.7 Setting the section thickness
Switching between trimming
Activate sectioning mode ( off).
and sectioning
C T . . . .°C O T . . . . ° C
Press this key to alternate between the µ 0 1 0 . 0
two functions.
Press or to select section thickness.
illuminated: Pressing one of these keys once makes the
Trimming mode is active display in control panel 1 switch to section
thickness indication (thickness value not yet
off: being altered). Pressing or further
Sectioning mode is active. starts to change the actual section thick-
ness setting.
Selecting trimming thickness
Activate trimming mode
Selectable section thickness settings:
Select trimming thickness (= sectioning
thickness at which trimming is carried out) 0 - 2 µm in 0.5-µm steps,
by pressing or . 2 - 10 µm in 1-µm steps,
10 - 20 µm in 2-µm steps,
The selected thickness is displayed in the cor-
responding LED : 20 - 60 µm in 5-µm steps,
60 - 100 µm in 10-µm steps,
Motorized trimming 100 - 300 µm in 50-µm steps.
Select Continuous stroke in functional area

A.
Activate trimming by pressing RUN/STOP
and RUN/ENABLE (located in functional
area C) simultaneously or by depressing the
footswitch.
To stop trimming press RUN/STOP or RUN/
ENABLE or depress the footswitch again.
Trimming thickness can be changed while trim-
ming is in motion by pressing or .

5. Operation
5.5 Daily operation of the instrument 5.5.1 Freezing specimens onto specimen
Select chamber temperature and, in instru- discs with quick-freeze shelf and
ments with specimen cooling, specimen stationary heat extractor
temperature according to the type of speci-
men to be sectioned (see also chapter 6.3 Size the specimen.
Reference chart for temperature settings).
Apply sufficient amount of embedding medi-
Do not continue with step 5.5.1 before the
actual chamber / (specimen) temperature um onto ambient temperature specimen
corresponds to the set value. This may take disc.
several hours (e.g. when operating the in- Inside the cryochamber, place the specimen
strument for the first time or when the instru- onto the disc and orient.
ment had been switched off).
Place specimen disc with specimen into one
Prior to operating the instrument , of the 10 openings in the quick-freeze shelf
please read and observe the fol- (see below) and freeze.
lowing safety instructions:
Integrated safety devices

(Chapter 2.2) .
Handling microtome knives

/ blades
(Chapter 2.3.4) 2 1
Knife guard /
3
Handwheel lock
(Chapter 2.3.5)
Motorized sectioning
(Chapter 2.3.6) The freezing process can be sped up further by
Defrosting using the stationary heat extractor (1). Next to
/ handling frozen tissue the low temperature stabilizer (2) (Parking
(Chapter 2.3.7) station), 3 specimen discs (3) can be placed
within its pivoting range.
Frozen instrument parts
and accessories
(Chapter 2.3.8) Place the heat extractor (1) directly onto the
specimen surface. After approx. 30 seconds
Infectious / radioactive material the specimen is completely frozen.
(Chapter 2.3.9)

5. Operation
5.5.2 Freezing specimens onto specimen The specimen head is now automatically cooled
discs with 90 ° prism down to the lowest temperature (-50 °C).
(Instruments w/specimen cooling only) Once the specimen is frozen, remove the
In instruments with specimen cooling, the 90 ° disc from the prism and store it in the quick-
prism, which is inserted into the specimen head, freeze shelf until inserting it into the speci-
is an additional option to freeze specimens at
maximum temperature . men head.
Press again to activate menu item Fast
Object Freezing and deactivate the function
4
by pressing once again (see chapter
5.3.4 Menu functions item 4).
The specimen head temperature now automati-
cally returns to the previously selected set val-
ue.
Loosen screw (3) at specimen head and re-
move prism (1).
Installing the 90 ° prism
Store prism inside the cryochamber.
Loosen screw (3) at specimen head.
Insert pin (1) of prism completely into recep-
tacle (2) in the specimen head. 5.5.3 Optional accessories for freezing
specimens onto specimen discs
Important: the entire rear surface of the
prism must fit tightly against the specimen and for removing frozen specimens
head surface!
Retighten screw (3) at specimen head. Mobile heat extractor
The prism now forms a horizontal surface for In addition to the stationary heat extractor (part
quick specimen freezing. of standard delivery), a mobile heat extractor is
available as an optional accessory - see Ap-
Freezing specimens with the 90 ° prism pendix Ordering information - accessories ):
Apply sufficient amount of embedding medi-
um onto ambient temperature specimen disc,
add specimen and orient.
Insert specimen disc with specimen into the
receptacle (4) of the prism.
Press to activate menu item Fast Object Store heat extractor in chamber to precool.
Freezing and activate function by pressing Place onto specimen in quick-freeze shelf.
Remove as soon as specimen is frozen.
(see chapter 5.3.4 Menu functions item 4).

5. Operation
Thermoblock 5.5.4 Inserting specimen discs into the

specimen head
The thermoblock makes it easy to remove fro-
zen specimens from the specimen discs. Lock handwheel in upper position.
Do not store the thermoblock inside If a knife has already been inserted
the cryochamber - store at room into the knife holder, cover knife
temperature and only place into the edge with knife guard!
chamber for removing specimens
from discs.
Place cap (9) on one of the two ends so that Loosen clamping screw (3).
the correct size opening (7) for the disc to be
inserted is exposed. Insert specimen disc in opening (2) (rear
Insert pin (6) of specimen disc (5) into the surface of specimen disc must fit tightly
opening (7). against surface of specimen head).
After about 20 seconds remove the frozen Tighten clamping screw (3).
specimen from the specimen disc (use
tweezers).
If cap (9) fits too loosely, readjust with 5.5.5 Specimen orientation
screw (10). Do not tighten screw too much!
Once the specimen has been detached from Open clamping lever (4) --> (4a).
the disc, remove the thermoblock from the Orient specimen via orienting screws (1)
cryochamber. and (5).
Retighten clamping lever (4).

5. Operation
5.5.6 Trimming / sectioning Use motorized coarse feed to bring speci-

men close to knife (see chapter 5.4.5 Coarse
Inserting the knife feed functions).
Insert the knife / disposable blade into the Move anti-roll plate away from knife.
knife holder. --> Next steps: see chapter 5.4.6 Trimming.
Select appropriate clearance angle at knife
holder (settings between 4° and 6° are suit-
able for the majority of applications). Sectioning
For details on how to insert and ad- Adjust knife / knife holder relative to speci-
just the knives, please refer to the men (see Knife holder instruction manual).
separate instruction manual(s) for Place anti-roll guide onto knife.
your knife holder(s).
See also chapter 2.2 Integrated Orient specimen, if necessary (see chapter
safety devices incl. subchapter 5.5.5 Specimen orientation).
2.2.4 Knife guard. Select desired section thickness (see chap-
ter 5.4.7 Setting the section thickness).
Start sectioning at approx. 20 µm, reduce
Manual trimming section thickness gradually until reaching
Adjust knife / knife holder relative to speci- the appropriate thickness for the type of
men (see Knife holder instruction manual). specimen to be sectioned.
Unlock handwheel. Discard the first 2 to 3 sections cut at the de-
Use motorized coarse feed to bring speci- sired section thickness.
men close to knife (see chapter 5.4.5 Coarse When sectioning manually, rotate the hand-
feed functions). wheel evenly and at uniform speed.
Select desired section thickness (see chap-
ter 5.4.7 Setting the section thickness). For all details on motorized sectioning, please
Move anti-roll plate away from knife. refer to chapters 5.4.1 to 5.4.4:
Rotate handwheel to trim specimen down to Selecting a sectioning mode / Start and stop
desired sectioning plane. sectioning, Setting the sectioning window,
Selecting sectioning speed, Emergency stop.
Motorized trimming For advice on appropriate Sectioning tempera-
Adjust knife / knife holder relative to speci- tures for different types of tissue, please refer to
men (see Knife holder instruction manual). chapter 6.3 Reference chart for temperature
settings.
Unlock handwheel.
Center handwheel grip (See chapter 2.2.2).

5. Operation
5.6 Finishing work 5.6.2 Switching off the instrument for a

5.6.1 Daily routine steps longer period of time
If you do not plan to use the instrument for an
Remove all specimens from the cry- extended period of time, it can be switched off.
ochamber and store safely! See
However, since this involves a lot of work (see
also corresponding safety instruc-
below), it should be considered carefully
tions in chapter 2.3.7 Defrosting /
whether switching off the instrument is really
handling frozen tissue!
the better option.
Lock handwheel.
If the instrument is switched off, the microtome
Remove knife from knife holder, disinfect,
must be removed. Then the microtome, cryo-
dry (see chapter 7 Disinfection, cleaning
chamber and all accessories must be disinfect-
and maintenance) and store in the knife
ed and dried!
case.
Use a cold brush to sweep frozen sectioning
For that purpose, follow the instructions in
waste into the section waste tray.
chapters 7.1 through 7.5.3.
Empty section waste tray (dispose of sec-
tioning waste according to the applicable
regulations on disposal of special category
waste!).
If necessary, carry out a complete disinfection
procedure (see chapter 7 Disinfection,
cleaning and maintenance).
Remove all specimens from the chamber
and store safely.
Close sliding window.
Switch off cryochamber illumination.
Use lock/unlock key to lock display in control
panel 1 (Display background dark = locked):
C T . . . .°C O T . . . . ° C
1 2 : 0 0
Do not switch off mains switch /

automatic cutout (see chapter 5.2
Switching on / fuses)!

5. Operation
5.7 Defrosting The specimen head refrigeration is automatical-

ly switched back on when:
The Leica CM3050 S has 3 (instruments without at least 4 hours have passed since the de-
specimen cooling: 2) different defrosting options. frost cycle was completed;
- Automatic chamber defrost cycle and the actual chamber temperature devi-
ates less than 5 K from set value.
- Manual chamber defrost cycle After the specimen head refrigeration has been
- Specimen head defrosting (manual) - instru- switched back on, the specimen head tempera-
ments with specimen cooling only. ture rises briefly to +10 °C and then decreases
until it reaches the set value.
Read the safety instructions in chap-
ter 2.3.7 Defrosting / frozen speci- Switching specimen cooling back on immedi-
mens ! ately after defrosting:
Make sure to remove sensitive speci- As soon as the chamber defrost cycle is com-
mens from the cryochamber before pleted, specimen cooling can be switched back
on immediately:
the defrost cycle starts!
Press until menu item Set specimen
5.7.1 Automatic chamber defrost cycle
S E T T EMP O T - 3 5 ° C
The automatic defrost cycle is carried out once d -
every 24 hours at the preselected time.
(For details see chapter 5.3.4 Menu functions - Press .
items 6 and 7). S E T T EMP O T - 3 5 ° C
dd
During the defrost cycle, the corresponding as-
Specimen cooling is switched back on.
terisk is displayed inversely:
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C Despite the possibility of switching

n n H OM E dd the specimen cooling system back
on immediately after the automatic
Once the defrost cycle is finished, the instrument chamber defrost cycle, we recom-
automatically switches back to refrigeration. mend the automatic defrost cycle
be set at a point in time when the
Instruments with specimen cooling: entire procedure can be controlled
automatically.
When defrosting starts, to avoid icing the speci- (See also information on menu
men head is automatically adjusted to a temper- items 6 and 7 in chapter 5.3.4 Menu
ature between -10 °C and -5 °C, i.e. the set tem- functions).
perature value is deactivated temporarily.

5. Operation
5.7.2 Manual chamber defrost cycle 5.7.3 Defrosting the specimen head
(instruments with specimen cooling
In addition to the automatic defrost cycle, a
manual chamber defrost cycle can be activat-
only)
ed when necessary. To activate specimen head defrosting:
Press until menu item Set chamber Press until menu item Set specimen
S E T T EMP C T - 3 0 ° C S E T T EMP O T - 3 5 ° C
d - dd
Press . A brief sound signals that the Press . A brief sound signals that the
manual chamber defrost cycle has started:
manual chamber defrost cycle has started:
S E T T EMP O T - 3 5 ° C
S E T T EMP C T - 3 0 ° C
d - dd
Specimen head temperature increases to be-

The manual defrost cycle ends either when the
tween +20 °C and +30 °C for a duration of 10
selected defrost cycle duration is over or when
minutes, after which it returns to the set value.
a chamber temperature of -5 °C is reached.
To abort the manual defrost cycle: To abort specimen head defrosting:
Go back to menu item Set chamber tem- Press until menu item Set specimen
perature and press again. temperature is displayed and press
once more.
Instruments with specimen cooling:
When defrosting starts, to avoid icing the spec-
imen head is automatically adjusted to a tem-
perature between -10 °C and -5 °C, i.e. the set
temperature value is deactivated temporarily.
(same as with automatic defrost cycle - see
chapter 5.7.1 Automatic chamber defrost cy-
cle)
10 seconds after the manual chamber defrost cy-
cle has been completed, the specimen head re-
frigeration is switched back on, cooling down to
the set value.

6. Troubleshooting, applications tips
6.1 Displayed error messages 4. Service

The autodiagnosis function of the CM3050 S C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C
displays error messages in case of certain mal- S E R V I C E
functions.
This message is displayed after a
1. Power failure
certain number of operating hours
This error message is displayed after the instru- to remind the user to have a preven-
ment had been disconnected from mains, either tive maintenance done by Leica
due to power failure or because the mains Technical Service.
switch had been turned off. This message is displayed only, if
the instrument is not regularly ser-
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C
P OW E R F A I L U R E viced by Leica Technical Service.
We recommend a maintenance
To acknowledge the message, press for contract once the warranty period
about 5 seconds.
has expired!
2. Coarse feed Contact your local Leica sales
Coarse feed malfunction has occurred. office for details!
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - 3 5 ° C
If one of the error messages listed
? ? ? ?
under 2, 3 and 4 is displayed, please
This message is also displayed, if the coarse contact Leica Technical Service.
feed plug has not been reconnected properly
after reinstallation of the microtome.
6.1.1 Other error indications
3. Temperature indications
(red ) in control panel 2 is illuminated:
C T - # # ° C O T - 3 5 ° C Emergency stop button accidentally activat-
or ed.
--> Unlock.
C T - 3 0 ° C O T - # # ° C
Footswitch not properly connected.
--> Check connection - connect properly,
If the # symbol is displayed instead of chamber if applicable.
or specimen temperature indication, the corre-
sponding temperature sensor is broken or a
short circuit has occurred.

6.2 Potential problems - causes and remedies
Problem Causes Remedies

Frost on chamber walls and - Cryostat is exposed to draft - Eliminate draft sources or
microtome (open windows, doors, air- change place of installation of
conditioning). the cryostat.
- Sliding window has been open - Close sliding window.
for a long period of time at a
very low chamber temperature.
- Frost build-up caused by - Consider wearing a mask.
breathing into the cryocham-
ber.
Sections smear - Specimen not cold enough. - Select lower temperature.

- Knife and/or anti-roll plate not - Wait until knife and/or anti-roll
yet cold enough - sections plate have reached chamber
melt. temperature.
Sections splinter - Specimen too cold. - Select higher temperature.

Sections not properly flattened - Static electricity / draft. - Eliminate cause.
- Specimen not cold enough. - Select lower temperature.
- Large surface specimen. - Trim specimen parallel; in-
crease section thickness.
- Anti-roll plate poorly adjusted. - Readjust anti-roll plate.
- Anti-roll plate poorly aligned - Align correctly.
relative to knife edge.
- Wrong clearance angle - Set correct clearance angle.
selected.
- Knife blunt or damaged. - Use different part of knife or
replace knife.
Sections not properly flattened - Knife and/or anti-roll plate dirty. - Clean with dry cloth or brush.
despite correct temperature - Edge of anti-roll plate dam-
and correctly aligned anti-roll aged. - Replace anti-roll plate.
plate - Blunt knife.
- Use different part of knife or
replace knife.


Sections curl on anti-roll plate. - Anti-roll plate does not pro- - Readjust correctly.
trude far enough beyond the
knife edge.
Scraping noise during section- - Anti-roll plate protrudes too far - Readjust correctly.
ing stroke and specimen return beyond the knife edge and is
stroke. scraping against the specimen.
Ondulated sections. - Knife damaged. - Use different part of the knife

or replace knife.
- Edge of anti-roll plate damaged. - Replace anti-roll plate.
Chatter marks form during - Specimen insufficiently frozen - Refreeze specimen onto disc.
sectioning. onto specimen disc.
- Specimen disc not clamped - Check disc clamping.
tightly enough.
- Specimen holder ball joint not - Check ball joint clamping.
clamped.
- Knife not clamped tightly - Check knife clamping.
enough.
- Selected section thickness too - Refreeze specimen onto disc.
thick - specimen has come off
the specimen disc.
- Specimen very hard and inho- - Increase section thickness; if
mogeneous. possible, reduce specimen
surface.
- Blunt knife. - Use different part of knife or
replace knife.
- Knife profile inappropriate for - Use knife with a different pro-
the type of specimen to be file.
sectioned.
- Wrong clearance angle. - Readjust clearance angle set-
ting.
Condensation forms on anti-roll - Brush, forceps, cloth or other - Accessories and cleaning
plate and knife during cleaning. cleaning item too warm. material to be used pre-cooled
only. - Store on storage shelves
inside the cryochamber.


Anti-roll plate damaged after - Anti-roll plate protrudes too far - Replace anti-roll plate; in
adjustment. beyond the knife edge. Adjust- future, lift away from the knife
ment was done in the direction when aligning.
of the knife. - Handle anti-roll plate more
carefully.
Thick/thin sections. - Wrong temperature for the - Select correct temperature.

tissue to be sectioned. - Wait until correct temperature
has been reached.
- Knife profile inappropriate for - Use knife with different profile
the specimen to be sectioned. (c or d) or possible switch to
disposable blade system.
- Ice build-up on the knife back. - Remove ice.
- Handwheel rotation not uni- - Adapt speed.
form or inappropriate rotation
speed.
- Knife not clamped tightly - Check knife clamping.
enough.
- Specimen disc not clamped - Check disc clamping.
correctly.
- Embedding medium poured - Place embedding medium on
onto cold specimen disc; spec- luke-warm specimen disc,
imen comes off the disc once inside the cryochamber place
frozen. the specimen onto the disc and
freeze in quick-freeze shelf.
- Blunt knife. - Use different part of knife or
replace knife.
- Incorrect clearance angle. - Set correct clearance angle.
- Specimen dried out. - Prepare new specimen.
Tissue sticks to the anti-roll - Anti-roll plate too warm or - Cool or readjust anti-roll plate.
plate. incorrectly adjusted.
- Static electricity. - Eliminate cause.
- Fat on corner or edge of anti- - Remove fat (alcohol).
roll plate.
- Knife rusty. - Remove rust.
Flattened sections curl up as - Static electricity or draft. - Eliminate cause.

soon as anti-roll plate is lifted - Anti-roll plate too warm. - Cool anti-roll plate.
from the knife.


Sections tear. - Temperature too low for the - Select higher temperature and
tissue to be sectioned. wait for the new temperature
to be reached.
- Knife blunt, dirty, dusty, frosted - Eliminate cause (--> see details
or rusty. on individual problems).
- Upper edge of anti-roll plate - Exchange anti-roll plate.
damaged.
- Hard particles in the tissue. - If application permits, section
at lower plane.
- Rear face of knife dirty. - Clean.
Inconsistent or insufficient - Microtome was not completely - Remove microtome from cham-
specimen feed. dry when refrigeration was ber and dry - possibly with hair-
switched on; ice build-up inside dryer (hairdryer only to be used
the micrometer mechanism. outside the cryochamber!) or at
ambient temperature.
- Microtome defective. - Call Technical Service.
Specimen disc cannot be - Specimen disc stuck to quick- - Apply strong alcohol to contact
removed. freeze shelf or specimen head point or heat the specimen
due to moisture on underside head.
of specimen disc.
Cryostat inoperational. - Mains plug not properly con- - Check mains plug connection.
nected.
- Automatic cut-out has been - Reconnect automatic cut-out
triggered. (switch instrument back on).
Sectioning motor inoperational. - Footswitch not connected. - Connect footswitch.

- Automatic cut-out of sectioning - Reconnect automatic cut-out
motor has been trig- (push inwards until it locks in
gered. place).
- Motor defective. - Call Technical Service.
No or insufficient refrigerating - Stopper not placed properly - Close drain with stopper.
performance. into drain in bottom of cryo-
chamber.
- Compressor defective. - Call Technical Service.
- Leak in cooling system. - Call Technical Service.

6.3 Reference chart for temperature settings (in minus °C)
Tissue 10 - 15 15 - 25 25 - 50
Adrenal d
Bone marrow d
Brain d
Bladder d
Breast - fatty d
Breast - little fat d
Cartilage d d
Cervical d
Fatty d
Heart and vascular d
Intestinal d
Kidney d
Laryngeal d
Lip d d
Liver d
Lung d
Lymphoid d
Muscular d
Nose d
Pancreatic d
Prostate d
Ovarian d
Rectal d
Skin with fat d
Skin without fat d
Spleenal or bloody tissue d d
Testicular d d
Thyroid d
Tongue d
Uterus curettage d
Please note: The recommended temperature settings are based on long-term experience. However, they can only be
guidelines for general orientation, as each individual specimen may require particular adjustments.

7. Disinfection, cleaning and maintenance
7.1 Safety instructions 7.2 Spray disinfection with Leica Cryofect

on disinfection and cleaning
For practical spray disinfection, we recommend
Leica Cryofect which is fully effective at tem-
When disinfecting the instrument, peratures in the negative range down to -20 °C.
make sure to observe the following
safety instructions: Set chamber temperature -20 °C or warmer.
Disinfection and Cleaning Remove specimens from the chamber and
(Chapter 2.3.10) store safely.
Carefully remove knife / blade from knife
Handling microtome knives / holder.
blades
(Chapter 2.3.4) Remove section waste tray from cryocham-
ber and empty.
Defrosting / handling frozen Remove remaining section waste from cryo-
tissue chamber.
(Chapter 2.3.7)
Working accessories (brushes, specimen
Frozen instrument parts and holders etc.) can be disinfected inside the
accessories cryochamber.
(Chapter 2.3.8) Once the selected chamber temperature has
been reached, spray Leica Cryofect on the
Infectious / radioactive material surfaces and accessories to be disinfected.
(Chapter 2.3.9)
Allow to soak for 15 minutes.
Use paper towels or another type of
disposable cleaning cloths to wipe up
disinfectant and remaining section waste.
Dispose of paper towels together with sec-
tion waste.
If previously altered, set chamber tempera-
ture back to its former value.
Put specimens back into the cryochamber.

7 Disinfection, cleaning and maintenance
7.3 Disinfection with conventional Allow cryochamber to dry thoroughly.

disinfectants Reinstall microtome (see chapter 7.5.3).
Only when they are completely dry, reinsert
Switch the instrument off. the disinfected accessories / tools into the
Carefully remove knife / blade as well as spec- cryochamber.
imens and accessories from the chamber. Reinsert the sliding window.
Remove section waste from the chamber Switch the instrument back on.
and dispose of it.
Once a suitable chamber temperature has
Remove sliding window (see chapter 7.6 Ex-
been reached, return the specimens to the
changing the fluorescent light lamp).
Remove microtome (see chapter 7.5.1 cryochamber.
Removing the microtome).
Allow the microtome to thaw, disinfect and
allow to dry thoroughly. 7.4 Cleaning
When necessary, the instrument surfaces
Drying the microtome: can be cleaned with mild commercial house-
hold cleaners.
Use a hairdryer: dry and before
Surfaces which are potentially contaminated
reinstalling into the chamber
allow the microtome to cool (infectious germs) should always be cleaned
down to room temperature. with alcohol disinfectants!
Allow to dry at room temperature

(at least over night - longer,
if necessary).
Disinfect and dry disassembled parts

(accessories and tools).
Disinfect chamber walls with commercial
alcohol disinfectant.
Place an adequate container underneath the
drain tube at the right side of the instrument.
Pull stopper out of chamber bottom and
drain off disinfecting solution into the con-
tainer.
Put stopper back into drain in cryochamber.

7.5 Removing / reinstalling the microtome 7.5.2 Disassembling the specimen head
(instruments w/specimen cooling only)
7.5.1 Removing the microtome
Use Allen key size 5 to remove screw (2)
When removing the microtome from the center of the specimen head (1).
make sure to observe the following
safety instructions:
Removing / reinstalling
the microtome
(Chapter 2.3.11)
Defrosting / handling frozen

tissue
(Chapter 2.3.7)
Infectious / radioactive material Do not twist the refrigerating tube (see

(Chapter 2.3.9) chapter 2.3.11 Removing / reinstalling the
microtome).
Disinfection and cleaning Hold hook (4) (part of standard delivery) in
(Chapter 2.3.10) one of your hands and with your other hand
rest refrigerating tube (3) on hook.
Insert hook (4) with refrigerating tube (3) into
the opening above mark (t).
· Prior to removing the microtome, carry out
preparation steps as per chapter 7.3 (switch
instrument off, remove accessories etc.)

Remove plug of temperature sensor (7). 7.5.3 Reinstalling the microtome

Remove plug of coarse feed motor:
Pull bushing backward (arrow 1) and hold.
Place your thumb between plug (6) and When reinstalling the microtome
socket at the microtome (arrow 2). make sure to observe the following
To remove plug (6) from microtome, pull it safety instructions:
away from the microtome while at the same
time carrying out a slight jogging movement Removing / reinstalling
(arrows 3). the microtome
7 (Chapter 2.3.11)
9
Display message Dry Microtome
6 (Chapter 2.3.12)
8
Lock handwheel in lower position.

Place microtome in chamber.
2 Put one drop of cryostat oil per surface on
the contact surfaces of plastic coupling (11)
and handwheel coupling (12).
3 3 Place plastic coupling (11) on handwheel
1 coupling (12).
Push microtome slightly towards the right
until axle (9) fits tightly into coupling (11).
Loosen screws (8) with Allen key. Unlock handwheel.
Lift microtome a little and pull slightly to the Adjust the parts into each other by rotating
left. the handwheel slightly backward and forth.
This loosens the plastic coupling (11) which Lock handwheel again in lower position.
connects the two axles. Tighten screws (8).
Reconnect plugs of coarse feed motor (6)
and temperature sensor (7).
Mount specimen head (in reverse order as
described on previous page).
Insert accessories (storage shelf, section
waste tray etc.).
Insert sliding window.
Connect instrument to mains and switch
back on.
Remove the microtome from the chamber.

7.6 Exchanging the fluorescent light lamp Removal

The lamp (3) is located behind the glare
shield (4).
Prior to exchanging the lamp, Carefully hold lamp with both of your hands.
please read and observe the fol- Slightly pull the lamp downward at the left
lowing safety instructions: side to remove it from fastening clip (5).
Pull the lamp towards the left to remove it
Maintenance from its socket (6).
(Chapter 2.3.13)
Removing the sliding window

Hold sliding window (1) at grip bar (2), lift
slightly and pull out towards yourself.
Installing the replacement lamp

Hold the lamp in correct position (see draw-
ing below) and push towards the right until it
locks into the socket.
Push the lamp slightly upwards until it locks
into the clip.
Put the sliding window back in place.

Reconnect the instrument to mains and
switch it back on.

8. Warranty and service
8.1 Warranty
Leica Microsystems Nussloch GmbH guarantees that the delivered product
was subjected to stringent quality control to ensure that the instrument com-
plies with its technical specification.
The warranty conditions of your local Leica sales company or dealer apply.
Only authorized Leica technical service engineers may carry out repairs on
the instrument.
Any intervention on / modification of the instrument and any use of accesso-
ries other than those delivered by Leica is subject to prior approval by Leica,
unless explicitly specified otherwise in this manual.
Please note that any spare parts and accessories, which are not supplied by
Leica, have neither been inspected nor have they been approved by Leica.
Therefore, installation or use of such parts and/or accessories may impair the
design features of the instrument.
Leica assumes no liability for any damage caused by the use of

non-original spare parts or non-original accessories.
Warranty claims can be made only if the instrument has been operated ac-
cording to its designated use and according to the instructions given in this
manual.
Damage resulting from improper use of the product and/or faulty operation
invalidates the warranty.
Leica will not assume liability for any such damage.
8.2 Technical service information

If you require technical service or need replacement parts, please contact
your Leica sales representative or dealer who sold the product.
Please provide the following information:
Model name and serial number of the instrument;
Location of the instrument and name of the person to contact;
Reason for the service call;
Delivery date of the instrument.
If not accompanied by an official return authorization form, Leica Microsys-
tems Nussloch GmbH does not accept any returned merchandise.

8. Warranty and service
8.2.1 Important information for repairs / returns of cryostats

If there is any risk that the instrument or parts of it are contaminated with in-
fectious or radioactive substances, the customer must disinfect / decontami-
nate the instrument prior to returning it or to having it repaired on-site.
The customer must expressly confirm disinfection / decontamination, indicat-
ing as well the disinfection / decontamination method used.
a. On-site repairs:
Leica Technical Service personnel is instructed to ask for proof of disin-
fection / decontamination and the method(s) that has/have been used.
b. Returned instruments:
Written statement confirming disinfection / decontamination and method(s)
applied to be included in shipment!
If instruments / parts for repair arrive at the Leica facility in a state

which suggests that the instrument has not been properly disinfect-
ed / decontaminated, the instrument(s) / part(s) will be returned to
the customer, at the customers expense!
8.3 Shutdown and disposal of the instrument

The instrument or parts of the instrument must be disposed of in compliance
with the local laws.
The Leica CM3050 S contains a large number of recyclable components.
For more information on the recycling program for our cryostats, please con-
tact your Leica sales representative or dealer, or Leica Microsystems Nuss-
loch GmbH, Germany.
We will be glad to provide you with details on the recycling concept for our
cryostats which meets todays environmental requirements.

Appendix
1. Electrohydraulic height adjustment 1.3 Safety instructions

An electrohydraulic lifting device for individual Prior to operating the height adjustment device,
working height adjustment is available as an make sure to read the present instruction manu-
optional accessory for the CM3050 S cryostat al. Pay special attention to the following safety
series. instructions:
1.1 Designated use

Prior to connecting the height ad-
The electrohydraulic height adjustment device justment device to mains, check to
has been designed exclusively for adjustment make sure that the nominal voltage
of the instrument working level to the individual and frequency indications on the
height of the user. device name plate correspond to
It has been designed for use with the Leica cry- the actual mains voltage in your
ostat series CM3050 S only and may under no lab!
circumstances be used to lift other instruments
or persons. Do not move the height adjustment
Damage resulting from improper use of the device with the Leica CM3050 S in-
product and/or faulty operation invalidates the stalled on the frame. If the place of
warranty. installation needs to be changed,
Leica will not assume liability for any such dam- first take the Leica CM3050 S down
age. from the height adjustment device
and then move both devices sepa-
1.2 Standard delivery rately.
Electrohydraulic height adjustment device for Never place your feet underneath
cryostat series CM3050 S, complete outfit, con- the U-frame when lowering the
sisting of a U-shaped frame on four height-ad- height adjustment device! Risk of
justable feet and a two-key control unit. injury!
The height adjustment device is available in 2 Only authorized Leica technical ser-
voltages: vice engineers may carry out re-
pairs on both the Leica CM3050 S
1. 230 240 V / 50 Hz order no. 0443 26147 and the height adjustment device.
This applies especially to all work
2. 230 240 V / 50 Hz order no. 0443 26147 carried out on the hydraulic system
of the height adjustment device.

Appendix
1.4 Installation
Open the shipping box and remove all packing material including the Sty-
rofoam pieces.
Take the height adjustment device out of the box.
At the place of installation, place the U-frame on the floor with the open
side facing yourself. Adjust the U-frame parallel to the wall, maintaining a
distance of approx. 10 cm between wall and U-frame.
Push the (ab) button to lower the height adjustment device to the lowest
possible position.
In order to be able to move the instrument,

use a fork wrench and unscrew the rollers
on which the Leica CM3050 S moves by
about 2 cm.
Roll the cryostat onto the U-frame as far as it

will go. The rear of the cryostat housing has
to fit closely to the rear bar of the U-frame.
Roll the cryostat onto the U-frame as far as it

will go. The rear of the cryostat housing has
to fit closely to the rear bar of the U-frame.
When placing the instrument onto Plug the height adjustment device into the
the U-frame, make sure the power mains socket. The unit is now ready for use.
cord does not get caught and thus
crushed between U-frame and cry-
ostat housing.

Appendix
1.5 Control keys 1.7 Troubleshooting

1. Slight and uniform loss of height of the de-
vice in the course of several weeks is nor-
mal. Remedy:
Correct the loss of height by pressing the
button until the instrument is lifted back up to
the desired working level.
2. The cryostat is in an inclined position due to
an uneven upward movement of the lifting
pistons. Difference of level among the four
legs > 5 mm.
Remedy:
Have the instrument travel once up and
down over the entire height adjustment dis-
tance: press until the instrument reach-
es the upper limit position and then until
The control keys are located on top of the con- the instrument reaches the lowest possible
trol unit (see photograph). position. Then lift the instrument back to reg-
ular working height.Should the problem re-
To lift the instrument, press . occur several times, call Leica Technical
To lower the instrument, press . Service.
3. The height adjustment device does not
As long as a button is held, the instrument will reach the maximum upper level or the instru-
go up or down until reaching the upper or lower ment lowers itself by a relatively large dis-
limit. tance (> 5 cm) within a short time.
1.8 Technical Data
1.6 Maintenance and care Nominal voltage: 230 - 240 V 100 - 115 V
Protect the lifting pistons in the four legs of Nomi nal frequency: 50 Hz 60 Hz
the height adjustment device against dust Type of actuation: Elektrohydraulik
and water. Total height of stroke: 230 mm
Carrying power: 200 kp
Approximately every six months lubricate the
Dimensions:
legs with a thin coat of resin-free oil.
Width: 880 mm (without control unit)
Once every year have the height adjustment 1030 mm (with control unit)
device checked by an authorized Leica ser- Depth: 555 mm
vice engineer. Weigth: approx. 30 kg

Appendix
2. Ordering information - accessories

2.1 Knife holders
Knife-holder CN for reusable microtome knives´w/anti-roll guide,
adjustable knife guard and knife support bars for slim and wide knives ............................................. 0419 18649
Knife support bar for knife holder CN, for slim knives .............................................................................. 0419 19426
Knife support bar for knife holder CN, for wide knives ............................................................................ 0419 19427
Knife-holder CE w/ glass anti-roll guide, for low profile disposable blades,
with lateral displacement feature ................................................................................................................ 0419 30383
Knife-holder CE w/ glass anti-roll guide, for high profile disposable blades
with lateral displacement feature ................................................................................................................ 0419 30390
Knife-holder CS for reusable knives, with one knife support
(mounted optionally on the left or right), anti-roll guide and knife guard ............................................. 0419 19787
Auxiliary clamping device for knife holder CS
(to be used instead of knife support, for increased stability) ................................................................. 0419 20971
Knife support bar for knife holder CS .......................................................................................................... 0419 25681
Knife holder base for knife holders CN, CE and CS ................................................................................... 0419 26140
Knife rest with section collecting tray for knife holder CS ...................................................................... 0419 18996
2.2 Specimen discs

Specimen disc, 20 mm ø ................................................................................................................................ 0370 08636
Specimen disc, 50 x 90 mm ............................................................................................................................ 0419 26750
other sizes on request
2.2 Accessories
90° prism ........................................................................................................................................................... 0443 25949
Mobile heat extractor ..................................................................................................................................... 0443 26836
Thermoblock .................................................................................................................................................... 0398 18542
Glass anti-roll guide, complete assy., for knife holder CE ....................................................................... 0419 30402
Glass anti-roll guide upgrade kit,
for retrofitting knife holders CN, CS (for C-profile knives) ...................................................................... 0419 30403
2.4 Consumables
OCT embedding compound for freezing tissue specimens onto specimen discs,
bottle of 125 ml ................................................................................................................................................. 0201 08926
Cryostat oil No. 407, bottle of 100 ml ............................................................................................................ 0336 06099

Appendix
EC Declaration of Conformity
We herewith declare, in exclusive responsibility, that the
Cryostat- Microtome Type CM3050 S
was developed, designed and manufactured to conform with the

Council Directive 89/392/EEC, Appendix II A (Machinery)
Council Directive 73/23/EEC (Low Voltage), and
Council Directive 89/336/EEC, Appendix I (Electromagnetic Compatibility),
including their amendments up to the date mentioned below.
The following harmonized standards were applied:
DIN EN 292,
DIN EN 61010-1,
EN 50082-1,
EN 55011
IEC 1000-4
The following national standards, guidelines and specifications were applied:

MedGV
In addition, the following in-house standards were applied:

DIN EN 9001
A complete set of technical documentation is available.

An instruction manual for subject product is available.
Leica Microsystems Nussloch GmbH

Postfach 1120
D-69222 Nussloch
Germany ............................
Dag Graupner
July 21, 1999 Managing Director

Alphabetical index
A E
Accessories 17, 40, 41, 60 EC Declaration of Conformity 59
Anti-roll guide (glass) 60 Electrical connections 12, 16, 19
Automatic chamber defrost cycle 44 Emergency stop function 9, 11, 36
Automatic cutout for sectioning motor 20 Exchanging the fluorscent light lamp 15, 56
Auxiliary clamping device for knife holder CS 60
Available models of the CM3050 S 17
F
Finishing work 43
B Fluorescent light lamp 15, 56
Brush shelf 20 Foot switch - use for emergency stop 11
Footswitch 11, 19, 20, 34, 36, 46, 50
C Footswitch port 20
Freezing specimens onto specimen discs 39, 40
CE Mark (declaration of conformity) 59 Frozen instrument parts / accessories 13
Chamber defrost cycle (automatic) 44 Frozen specimens 45
Chamber defrost cycle (manual) 45 Fuses 25
Cleaning 53
CM3050 S - overview 20 G
Coarse feed functions 37 Glass anti-roll guide 60
Connecting the footswitch 19
Consumables 60 H
Continuous stroke 34
Handling microtome knives / blades 13
Control panel 1 20, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32
Handwheel grip centering 9, 10
Control panel 2 20, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38
Handwheel grip centering (motorized sectioning) 13
cryochamber illumination - ON/OFF key 26
Handwheel lock 9, 10, 13, 31
Cryochamber temperature 29
cryohamber illumination (exchange) 56 I
cryohamber illumination (safety instructions) 15
Cryostat CM3050 S (overview) 20 Infectious / radioactive material 14
Cryostat oil No. 407 60 Inserting specimen discs into the specimen head 41
Installing / inserting accessories 18
D Installing the footswitch 19
Installing the handwheel 18
Daily operation of the instrument 39 Instrument nameplate 3, 7
Daily routine steps when finishing work 43 Integrated safety devices 9, 10, 11
Defrost key 26 Intermittent stroke 34
Defrosting 13, 44, 45
Defrosting / Handling frozen tissue 13 K
Defrosting the specimen head 45
Knife guard 9, 11, 13, 60
Designated use 8
Knife guard / handwheel lock 13
Disassembling the specimen head 54
Knife holder CN 20
Disinfection and cleaning 14, 52, 53
Knife holder CS 20
Display message Dry microtome 15
Knife holder base for knife holders CN, CE and CS 20, 60
Displayed error messages 46
Knife holder CE 20
Displaying parameters with arrow keys 32
Dry microtome 15, 27 Knife holders CN, CE, CS 60
Duration of defrost cycle (setting) 30 Knife rest with section collecting tray for knife 60
Knife support bar for knife holder CS 60
Knives / blades. Siehe Handling microtome knives / blades

Alphabetical Index
L Section thickness (setting) 38

Section thickness range 38
Leica CM3050 S - available models 17 Section waste tray 20
Leica Cryofect - for spray disinfection 52 Sectioning 42
Lock / unlock key 26 Sectioning modes (single, continuous, intermittent 34
Sectioning speed selection 36
M Sectioning window 35
Mains switch / automatic cutout for instrument 20 Selecting a sectioning mode 34
Maintenance 15, 56 Serial number 3, 7
Manual chamber defrost cycle 45 Shutdown and disposal of the instrument 58
Maximum sectioning speed (Vmax) 36 Single stroke 34
Menu functions 26, 28 Site requirements 12, 16
Menu key 26 Specimen discs 20, 41, 60
Mobile heat extractor 20, 40, 60 Specimen head w/o specimen cooling 20
Motorized sectioning 13, 34, 36 Specimen head with specimen cooling (option) 20
Motorized sectioning - start / stop 34 Specimen orientation 41
Motorized trimming 38 Standard delivery 17
Start / stop motorized sectioning 34
O Start of automatic defrost cycle (setting) 30
Stationary heat extractor 5, 20, 39
OCT compound for freezing tissu 60 Status indication 31, 32
Operating the instrument for the first time 24 Storage shelf, left 20
Overview of the instrument 20 Storage shelf, right 20
Switching between trimming and sectioning 38
P Switching off the instrument for longer 43
Potential problems - causes and remedies 47, 48, 49, 50 Switching on the instrument 25
Preset counter (indicating parameters) 32 Symbols in this manual and their meaning 7
Preset counter (setting parameters) 29
Prism (90°) 20, 40, 60 T
Technical Data 22, 23
Q Technical service information 57
Qualification of personnel 8 Temperature settings (reference chart) 51
Quick-freeze shelf 20, 39 Thermoblock 20, 41, 60
Quick-freezing at maximum specimen temperature 30, 40 Time parameters (setting) 28, 30
Quick-freezing specimens 39, 40 Transport 12
Trimming 42
R Trimming / sectioning 42
Trimming thickness 38
Reference chart for temperature settings 51 Troubleshooting 46, 47, 48, 49, 50
Refrigeration parameters (indication) 32
Refrigeration parameters (setting) 28, 29, 30 U
Removing / reinstalling the microtome 15, 54, 55
Removing frozen specimens from specimen discs 40 Unpacking and installation 16
Removing the sliding window 56
Repacking 16 V
Repairs / returns of cryostats (important info) 58 Vmax key 36
Rubber mat 20
W
S
Warranty 57
Safety instructions: handling and operation of the 13, 14, 15
Section thickness (indication) 32
Leica CM 3050 S - Cryostat 65

Notes

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Leica CM3050 S

Leica CM 3050 S  Cryostat 3

1. Important information .................................................................................................................. 7

2.1 General information on instrument ........................................................................................................ 9

4 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

3.4 Installing/inserting accessories ........................................................................................................... 18

4. Instrument Properties ................................................................................................................ 20

Leica CM3050 S  Cryostat 5

5.5.5 Specimen orientation ............................................................................................................................. 41

6. Troubleshooting, applications tips ......................................................................................... 46

7. Disinfection, cleaning and maintenance .............................................................................. 52

8. Warranty and service ................................................................................................................ 57

6 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

Leica CM 3050 S  Cryostat 7

General 1.2 Designated use

1.3 Qualification of personnel

8 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

2.1 General information on instrument 2.2 Integrated safety devices

Leica CM3050 S  Cryostat 9

2.2.1 Locking the handwheel Instruments with sectioning motor:

2.2.2 Centering the handwheel grip

During motorized sectioning, for

--> The upper locking position for pin (2) is

10 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

2.2.3 Emergency stop function 2.2.4 Knife guard

Always cover the cutting edge with

Activating the emergency stop function

Deactivating the emergency stop

Leica CM3050 S  Cryostat 11

2.3 Safety instructions: handling and operation of the instrument

12 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

2.3.4 Handling microtome knives/blades 2.3.7 Defrosting/

Leica CM3050 S  Cryostat 13

2.3.9 Infectious/radioactive material 2.3.10 Disinfection and cleaning

14 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

2.3.11 Removing/reinstalling the microtome 2.3.12 Display message Dry microtome

Leica CM3050 S  Cryostat 15

3.1 Site requirements 3.2 Unpacking and installation

High ambient temperature and/or

3.1.2 Electrical connections

Make sure to read and follow all

16 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

3.3 Standard delivery Further accessories:

Leica CM 3050 S  Cryostat 17

3.4 Installing/inserting accessories 3.4.2 Inserting the accessories

18 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

3.4.3 The footswitch Connecting the footswitch

Have you observed all safety in-

 Insert mains plug into wall outlet.

Leica CM 3050 S  Cryostat 19

20 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

Leica CM3050 S  Cryostat 21

4.2 Technical Data

Type CM3050S-10 CM3050S-1 CM3050S-8 CM3050S-9

Specimen cooling (Option)

22 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

CM3050S-3 CM3050S-6 CM3050S-7 Microtome

Fluorescent light lamp (cryochamber illumination): Sectioning motor (Option):

Leica CM3050 S  Cryostat 23

5.1 Operating the instrument for the first time

 First, study chapters 1, 2, and 3 - install the instrument as described in

24 Instruction Manual V1.1 02/2000

5.2 Switching on/fuses Automatic cutout for sectioning motor:

To make the instrument functional again after

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 3

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 5

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 7

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 9

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 11

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 13

2.3.11 Removing/reinstalling the microtome 2.3.12 Display message Dry microtome

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 15

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 17

Insert mains plug into wall outlet.

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 19

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 21

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 23

First, study chapters 1, 2, and 3 - install the instrument as described in

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 25

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 27

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 29

Indication LOCKED completely

i.e. while LOCKED is displayed, no Section counter

nn Further indications: see chapter 6.1 (actual value)

Retraction stroke Error messages indicated in the Preset counter

Leica CM3050 S Cryostat 31

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 33

Position upper edge of specimen just below

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 35

If the emergency stop function has been ac-

5.4.5 Coarse feed keys Coarse feed fast forward

Press key to activate. Coarse feed slow forward

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 37

Select Continuous stroke in functional area

Integrated safety devices

Handling microtome knives

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 39

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 41

5.5.6 Trimming / sectioning Use motorized coarse feed to bring speci-

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 43

Leica CM 3050 S Cryostat 45